Diabetes & Weight Gain

Weight gain is common after starting insulin therapy. Many people gain 0.5- 1.5 kg (1-3 pounds) as the insulin begins to control their blood sugar. Weight gain is more common in women than in men, but, it’s difficult to predict who will gain weight. Weight gain may result as a direct complication of diabetes or be related to medication being taken to treat other complications, such as antipsychotics.

Diabetes & Weight Gain – Causes

There are many reasons why people gain weight when they begin insulin therapy. One theory is that one’s metabolism slows down when blood sugars come under control. The additional weight can increase your cells’ resistance to insulin and may therefore increase your need for medication, creating a vicious circle of increased weight and insulin resistance.

Reducing Insulin to Lose Weight is Dangerous

Many people with diabetes, especially young women, stop taking insulin with the hope that they can control weight gain. This is dangerous for many reasons and should be avoided. People who need insulin but do not regularly take it are very likely to have medical complication of their diabetes.

Diabetes & Weight Gain – Diet and Exercise Solution

If you are experiencing weight gain, it may be helpful to meet with a dietitian and an exercise coach with experience in diabetes. They can help to create a safe diet and workout schedule that will provide good nutrition, diabetes control, and good cardiovascular health, which will help you with weight maintenance or weight loss.